Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Thursday that his Lakers can't break the 72-10 regular season record set by his 199596 Bulls team, despite their white-hot 8-0 start. However, Jackson said he believes that the star-studded Miami Heat can.

"I think this Miami team could," Jackson said. "I mean, they are talented enough to do that. They may not be deep enough yet, or have all their persons in place...If they stay together, they have a good chance. They have a very talented team." (LA Times)

Ricketts wants 200 million in Wrigley upgrades

Chicago Cubs owner Tom Ricketts is asking the state for 200 million worth of renovations at Wrigley Field to help ensure the ballpark will survive as the home of the Cubs for the next 35 years. The Ricketts family has promised that the money will not be financed by new or increasing taxes. Rather, the family wants the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority to float as much as 300 million in bonds which will be paid over the next 35 years through already-in-place amusement taxes. (ChicagoBreakingBusiness)

Noah on Garnett: 'I don't like him'

It's no secret that Bulls' center Joakim Noah isn't a big fan of Boston's Kevin Garnett; but apparently he used to be. Noah told "The Waddle & Silvy Show" that he used to be a big fan of Garnett - he even had a poster of him in his room. But now Noah says that Garnett is just "mean," particularly towards particular players.

"And he was very mean to me my rookie year. And he's only mean to the young guys and the European players, for some reason. I don't know why, but that's who he doesn't like. He's not nice. I talk a lot of trash out there, but c'mon, be a little sensitive. Be sweet," said Noah. (Load O' Bull - Chicago Now)

Castro prepares for Dominican League

Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro is preparing to begin play in the Dominican Winter League for Leones de Escogido, a squad coached by former Cub outfielder Moises Alou. Castro hit .300 over 125 games in his first season with the Cubs and, while his offense was impressive, he also committed 27 errors. His defense is something that Castro says he wants to work on this winter.

"I came to work on my defense, primarily on my throw to first base," Castro said.(MLB.com)

Dye wants to play in 2011

Former White Sox outfielder Jermaine Dye, a free agent who sat out the entire 2010 season, says he intends to play again in 2011. The 2005 World Series MVP, who is representing himself rather than using an agent, says he has been contacted by three teams; the Phillies, Rays, and Rockies.

When asked if money was an issue, Dye said, 'No, not at all. I just want to play for a contender and am open to playing other positions. But I wont do a minor league deal.'" (FoxSports)
Ex-Bull Nocioni fined 25,000

Ex-Bulls forward Andres Nocioni was fined 25,000 by the NBA for throwing his mouthpiece into the stands in the first quarter of the 76ers 109-103 loss to the Thunder on Wednesday night. The fine was announced Thursday by Stu Jackson, the NBA executive vice president of basketball operation. (ChicagoBreakingSports)